Oxygen Ensemble

1999 to present

Oxygen Ensemble is a
collective of musicians led by New York bassist Thomas Bell. The group
takes an improvised collective composition' approach to its music which
provides a relentless groove heavily steeped in the traditions of Funk
& Free-Jazz, with tinges of Drum n Bass, Hip-Hop, & the
experimantal Avant-Garde. The Ensemble's improvisations are reminiscent
of Miles Davis' early 70's groups with a modern and often futuristic
feel. The music is based on rhythm, spontaneous composition and group
improvisation which allows exploration of all styles of music and
creates a captivating sound that pushes the envelope of today's music.

This
is the mainstay group over the last ten years and Oxygen Ensemble has
always been about collective improvisation. It was formed in
Tallahassee, Fl in 1999 and held a four month residency at the local
college venue, Potbellies. The first track on OMC's new release, "Ten
Years" is from the second gig the ensemble ever played together. In
the summer of 1999 founder Thomas Bell moved the concept to Seattle, WA
and during the next year four of the original members landed in Seattle
as well. Oxygen Ensemble held a new residency at The Rainbow Bar and
Grill in Seattle for about a year and many Seattle improvisers became
part of the new ever rotating line up.